Intoning Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
🎶
intoning
[ɪnˈtəʊnɪŋ ]
Definition
communication
The act of speaking or singing in a particular tone or pitch. It is often used to convey emotions, attitudes, or meanings.
Synonyms
chanting, intonating, reciting.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| intoning |
Similar to 'intoning', this also refers to speaking or singing with a particular tone or pitch, often in a reverent or solemn manner. It is usually associated with religious or spiritual texts.
|
| chanting |
This is typically used when a group of people are repeating a phrase or slogan rhythmically and often loudly. It can be found in both religious rituals as well as protests or rallies.
|
| reciting |
This is used when someone is speaking or reading aloud something from memory, like poetry, prose, or a speech. It can be in both formal and informal settings.
|
| intonating |
This is a less common term that refers to the act of using a specific tone or pitch while speaking or singing. It is often used in linguistic or technical contexts.
|
Examples of usage
- She was intoning a haunting melody.
- The priest intoned the sacred words of the ritual.
- He intoned his speech with passion and conviction.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Literature
- In poetry, intoning can create rhythm and enhance emotional impact, drawing listeners deeper into the work.
- Some famous speeches, like Martin Luther King Jr.'s 'I Have a Dream,' used intoning to emphasize key messages.
- Authors often use italics or special formatting to suggest intoning in the mind of the reader.
Psychology
- Research shows that intonation can greatly affect how we perceive a speaker's emotions and intentions.
- The way someone intones their speech can influence how convincing or trustworthy they seem.
- Emotional intonation in speech is crucial for effective communication and understanding among humans.
Performance Arts
- Actors often practice intoning a script aloud to convey emotions and character personas effectively.
- In chanting practices, such as those seen in religious ceremonies, intoning creates a meditative atmosphere.
- Drummers and musicians frequently use vocal intoning to communicate rhythm alongside their instruments.
Cultural Practices
- Many cultures incorporate intoning in their oral traditions, using song to convey history and stories.
- In some Native American rituals, intoning is used to create spiritual connections and engage listeners.
- Intoning practices have been adapted into modern storytelling, enhancing engagement through varied vocal delivery.
Origin of 'intoning'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'intonare,' meaning 'to tune' or 'to sound.'
- It first appeared in English in the 15th century, originally linked to musical settings.
- The prefix 'in-' means 'into,' suggesting a movement towards a certain way of speaking.
The word 'intoning' is derived from the Old French word 'entonner', which means 'to intone or sing'. The practice of intoning has been used in various cultures and traditions for centuries, as a way to add emphasis, emotion, or musicality to spoken words. From religious chants to dramatic recitations, intoning plays a significant role in communication and expression.